Both teams started briskly with the new rules allowing a swift tempo across the pitch. Neston took the lead after 15 minutes, catching out Wilmslow’s defence with a swift counter-attack. Pickering kept Wilmslow in contention with a string of fine saves and Wilmslow hit back with two drag-flicks from the mercurial Matt Westbrook. A debut goal from Dan Higgin ensured that the Oakwood Farm outfit had a flattering 3-1 lead at half-time.

The second half saw Wilmslow attack but the visitors turned the tables and went 5-3 up.

Good work down the right from Emile Broome and Willem-Jan Keune set up Simeon Mellor for Wilmslow’s fourth before a last-gasp goal from Keune made extra time inevitable. While searching for the golden goal, Wilmslow again conceded a breakaway goal and the Liverpool side progressed to the third round.